The statement that a Black Belt is the highest level in Six Sigma is incorrect. While Black Belts are highly trained, full-time project leaders essential to Six Sigma implementation, there are higher levels within the hierarchy. The Master Black Belt (MBB) is a more senior role, responsible for training, mentoring, and coaching Black Belts and Green Belts, as well as providing strategic guidance on the overall Six Sigma program. Furthermore, Champions or Sponsors, who are typically senior executives, hold a position of authority above Black Belts, as they provide resources, remove organizational barriers, and ensure projects align with strategic business objectives.

A. This is incorrect because while Black Belts often work full-time on projects, this does not make it the highest level.

B. This is incorrect because although Black Belts train teams, it is not the highest level; Master Black Belts hold a higher rank.

D. This is incorrect because Green Belt is a level below Black Belt, not the highest level in the Six Sigma structure.

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1. Purdue University Online. (n.d.). What Are the Six Sigma Belts and What Do They Mean? Purdue University. Retrieved from https://www.purdue.edu/online/blog/business/what-are-the-six-sigma-belts. In the section "Master Black Belt," it states, "Master Black Belts are the top of the Six Sigma hierarchy... They train and coach Black Belts and Green Belts." This confirms a level exists above Black Belt.

2. Antony, J., & Banuelas, R. (2002). Key ingredients for the effective implementation of Six Sigma program. Measuring Business Excellence, 6(4), 20-27. On page 24, the roles are defined, stating, "Master Black Belts are teachers who mentor and train Black Belts," and "Champions are senior managers who sponsor Six Sigma projects." This clearly places both roles above the Black Belt in the organizational structure for Six Sigma. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/13683040210451679.

3. Schroeder, R. G., Linderman, K., Liedtke, C., & Choo, A. S. (2008). Six Sigma: Definition and underlying theory. Journal of Operations Management, 26(4), 536-554. In Section 3.1, "Infrastructure," the paper describes the typical roles, noting that "Master Black Belts work with champions to select projects and mentor Black Belts," establishing a clear hierarchy where Master Black Belts and Champions are positioned above Black Belts. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jom.2007.06.007.